This six-shot Allen pepperbox was very popular during the 1850's. It is double-action, that is a pull on the trigger cocks and then releases the hammer. Rotation of the barrel is done by hand.The hammer is marked "Allen's Patent". The protruding screw in the convexity of the grip is part of the original design.

Unlike many of the pique pieces we encounter, this one has a substantial part of the design in silver. When first acquired, the silver was barely distinguishable from the surrounding tortoise-shell. Careful restoration, using baking soda and aluminum to reverse the tarnishing process brought it back to life.

Stovepipe style black 1850s top hat, probably in beaver felt. Note the flat brim and relatively straight sides. The flare at the top is caused by the overlap of the covering and mull of the tip against the covering of the band.